Snap general election represents ‘opportunity’ for sector

General election: Shock announcement could be "opportunity" for hospitality sector

Pub industry bodies have called the shock announcement of a snap general election on June 8 an “opportunity”, stating it will help highlight the key issues for the sector.

Yesterday (18 April) Prime Minister Theresa May announced her plans, stating she wanted to secure the backing of the British people for her Brexit negotiations.

The next general election was set to be in 2020, however May’s surprise election can be held as long as two-thirds of MPs back the move. MPs will vote on the plans later today and are expected to support them.

Rising costs​

ALMR chief executive Kate Nicholls said she “welcomed the opportunity” the election would offer “to engage candidates across Britain on the key issues for hospitality”.

“Whatever the outcome, we need a government that takes decisive action to tackle rising costs for eating and drinking out businesses and provides clarity on Brexit,” said Nicholls. “Employers need confidence and financial room to manoeuvre if they are to invest and grow.”

She said that during the last general election in 2015, ALMR liaised with MPs to make them aware of the contribution being made by licensed hospitality businesses in their constituencies.

Nicholls added: “Over the coming weeks and months the ALMR will be working hard to make sure that all parties know how valuable the sector is and what needs to be done to enable businesses to succeed.”

Brexit to be centre stage​

BBPA chief executive Brigid Simmonds added: “The debate around Brexit will be centre stage, and we will be highlighting the key issues facing the sector.”

She emphasised that the hospitality industry needs to continue to attract people with the right skills and to be able to keep trade with our EU neighbours as free as possible.

“Brexit also presents an opportunity to encourage the new government towards a more favourable tax regime, especially for beer duty, she said. “We will not hesitate to use the election to highlight both the challenges and the opportunities for brewing and pubs.”